Process evaluation of the 'Singapore Physical Activity and Nutrition Study'

Elaine Yee-Sing Wong; Andy H Lee; Anthony P James; Jonine Jancey

doi:10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2020.101847

Process evaluation of the 'Singapore Physical Activity and Nutrition Study'

Eval Program Plann. 2020 Dec:83:101847. doi: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2020.101847. Epub 2020 Jul 1.

Authors

Elaine Yee-Sing Wong¹, Andy H Lee², Anthony P James³, Jonine Jancey⁴

Affiliations

¹ School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, Western Australia, 6845, Australia. Electronic address: yee-sing.wong@postgrad.curtin.edu.au.
² School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, Western Australia, 6845, Australia. Electronic address: Andy.Lee@curtin.edu.au.
³ School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, Western Australia, 6845, Australia. Electronic address: T.P.James@curtin.edu.au.
⁴ School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, Western Australia, 6845, Australia; Collaboration for Evidence, Research and Impact in Public Health (CERIPH), School of Public Health, Curtin University, GPO Box U1987, Perth, Western Australia, 6845, Australia. Electronic address: J.Jancey@curtin.edu.au.

PMID: 32916472
DOI: 10.1016/j.evalprogplan.2020.101847

Abstract

Introduction: The Singapore Physical Activity and Nutrition Study (SPANS) aimed to improve the physical activity (PA) and nutrition behaviours of Singaporean women aged 50 years and over. The SPANS program consisted of PA classes, nutrition workshops, telephone dietary counselling, health booklets, a health calendar and program ambassadors. This study aimed to assess and understand the implementation of the program strategies and gain insight into process evaluation components to inform future programs.

Methods: The evaluation was guided by a process evaluation framework and collected data via questionnaires (n = 209), program ambassador documentation and exit interviews with program completers (n = 13) and non-completers (n = 12).

Results: In total, 295 participants completed the program (response rate = 84 %). Participants reported high levels of satisfaction with the overall program (99.5 %) and program activities (96.7 %), and also rated program ambassadors highly. Participation rates were highest for telephone dietary counselling sessions. The main reason for not attending program activities was having a 'busy schedule' (n = 158). Participants cited a need for improved recreational centre facilities and increased flexibility around program delivery.

Conclusions: The process evaluation showed that the program strategies were implemented as planned and were deemed suitable for supporting behaviour change among Singaporean women aged 50 years and over. The program reached and involved the majority of participants throughout the six months. The combination of practical educational resources and supportive program ambassadors were key strategies that facilitated positive PA and dietary behaviours. However, there needs to be some flexibility in the delivery of programs. The findings of this research may inform other programs in the region.

Keywords: Behaviour change; Community-based program; Non-communicable diseases; Nutrition; Physical activity; Program evaluation.

Publication types

Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

Aged
Diet*
Exercise*
Female
Humans
Middle Aged
Nutritional Status
Program Evaluation
Singapore

Associated data

ANZCTR/ACTRN12617001022358